The scatter index of Selz and Reitan (1979) was examined for the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised using the national normative sample. Results indicate that means and variances are substantially greater for adults than has been found for children. Correlations of scatter with several subject characteristics were found, which further limits potential utility of the index. Large percentages of the sample exceeded the Selz and Reitan criteria for abnormality, and, thus, invalidated these guidelines for adult populations tested with the WAIS-R.
Numerous attempts have been made over a 40-year period to develop diagnostic procedures based on Wechsler subtest score patterns. While not generally productive to date (Kaufman, 1979;Sattler, 1974) such procedures continually are being investigated. Within the last decade, several scatter indices have been proposed for use, especially with the WISC-R, which by implication can be used with the WAIS-R. Verbal-Performance Indices include IQ discrepancy (Kaufman, 1976a), subtest score range (Kaufrnan, 1976b), and number of deviant subtests (Kaufman, 1976b). Results have been mixed in classification of children with various psychopathologies (Gutkin & Reynolds, 198 1). Selz and Reitan (1979) proposed yet another scatter index based on the within-subject range of Wechsler subtests over the within-subject mean. They suggested three levels for